Lessons
PocketSign
PocketSign

How to Sign "Poo"

To sign *poo*, start by forming an 'A' handshape with your dominant hand. Position your hand so your palm faces your non-dominant side, and place your thumb just under your chin. Then, pull your hand forward and slightly downward, moving it away from your chin in a single, distinct motion.

Examples Using "Poo" in a Sentence

1

The baby made a poo in his diaper.

To express this in ASL, you would start by signing BABY. Next, use the sign for POO as demonstrated. To make the context completely clear, you can finish by signing DIAPER or simply pointing toward the diaper area. A natural facial expression will help convey the situation.

2

Watch out for the dog poo on the grass!

Begin by signing DOG, followed immediately by the sign for POO. Next, sign GRASS to establish the location. Finally, use the sign for CAREFUL or simply point with a warning facial expression to ensure the person knows to watch their step and avoid the mess.

3

I need to clean up the poo.

Start your sentence by signing I, followed by the sign for NEED. Next, use the sign for CLEAN by brushing your dominant flat hand over your non-dominant flat hand. Finish the sentence with the sign for POO, perhaps adding a slight grimace to match the chore.

How to Sign "Poo"
To sign *poo*, start by forming an 'A' handshape with your dominant hand. Position your hand so your palm faces your non-dominant side, and place your thumb just under your chin. Then, pull your hand forward and slightly downward, moving it away from your chin in a single, distinct motion.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
The visual motivation behind this sign relies on the downward and outward movement of the hand. While many ASL signs for bodily functions use the torso or lower body, this specific variation uses the chin as a starting point before dropping the hand. The motion of pulling away and downward conceptually represents the act of something being expelled or dropping, effectively capturing the meaning of the word in a simple, one-handed gesture.
Signing Tips
When signing *poo*, focus on the starting position and the direction of the movement. Ensure your dominant hand forms a solid 'A' handshape, and position it so your thumb lightly touches the underside of your chin. The movement should be a single, distinct motion pulling forward and slightly downward. Keep your facial expression neutral or match it to the context of your sentence, such as showing mild disgust if you are talking about a messy situation.
Common Mistakes
A frequent mistake beginners make is using the wrong handshape, such as a '1' (index finger) or an open '5' hand, instead of the correct 'A' handshape. Additionally, some learners might start the sign on their cheek, mouth, or neck rather than directly under the chin. Make sure the movement goes forward and downward; pulling the hand straight down or moving it side-to-side can confuse the meaning or make the sign look like a different word entirely.
Regional Variations
While the one-handed sign shown here is used by some signers, the most widely recognized ASL sign for *poop* uses two hands. In that common variation, you form a fist (or 'C' shape) with your non-dominant hand to represent a hole. You then form an 'A' handshape with your dominant hand and pull your thumb downward through the bottom of the non-dominant fist. Depending on your region or the Deaf community you interact with, you may see either version.
Examples Using "Poo" in a Sentence
1

The baby made a poo in his diaper.

To express this in ASL, you would start by signing BABY. Next, use the sign for POO as demonstrated. To make the context completely clear, you can finish by signing DIAPER or simply pointing toward the diaper area. A natural facial expression will help convey the situation.

2

Watch out for the dog poo on the grass!

Begin by signing DOG, followed immediately by the sign for POO. Next, sign GRASS to establish the location. Finally, use the sign for CAREFUL or simply point with a warning facial expression to ensure the person knows to watch their step and avoid the mess.

3

I need to clean up the poo.

Start your sentence by signing I, followed by the sign for NEED. Next, use the sign for CLEAN by brushing your dominant flat hand over your non-dominant flat hand. Finish the sentence with the sign for POO, perhaps adding a slight grimace to match the chore.

Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a different sign for *poop*?

Yes, a very common two-handed variation exists. It involves making a fist with your non-dominant hand and pulling your dominant hand's thumb down through the bottom of that fist. Both signs are understood, but the two-handed version is more widely taught.

Can I use this sign for both humans and animals?

Absolutely. This sign is versatile and can be used whether you are talking about a baby needing a diaper change or a dog leaving a mess in the yard. The context of your sentence will make it clear who or what you are referring to.

Does my thumb have to touch my chin?

Yes, for this specific variation, you should start by lightly touching the underside of your chin with your thumb. Starting the sign in the correct location is important for clarity, as moving it to the cheek or chest could change the meaning.

ASL is a beautiful, expressive language. Practice regularly and have fun!